US President Donald Trump has placed Nigeria back on Washington’s list of “Countries of Particular Concern” over claims of widespread attacks on Christians.

The designation, announced on Thursday, accuses Nigeria of allowing “severe violations of religious freedom” amid reports that thousands of Christians have been killed by extremist and armed groups.

The move has drawn mixed reactions, with Christian groups welcoming it and the Nigerian government rejecting the accusation as “misleading”.

What the US Decision Means

Under the International Religious Freedom Act, a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) is one where authorities engage in or tolerate serious abuses of religious freedom.

The label allows Washington to impose sanctions or restrictions on military aid and trade, although no specific measures have yet been announced.

President Trump said the decision reflected “credible evidence” of persecution against Christians in parts of northern and central Nigeria, adding that “Christianity faces an existential threat in the region”.

Nigeria’s Response

The Nigerian government has strongly rejected the designation, calling it “unfair and politically motivated”.

Officials insist that ongoing violence across Nigeria is driven by banditry, terrorism, and communal clashes rather than religion.

“These are security challenges, not religious persecution,” a government spokesperson said.

“Both Christians and Muslims have been victims of the same violent attacks.”

However, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) described the U.S. move as a “welcome acknowledgment” of what it calls years of targeted killings and destruction of churches.

Background

Nigeria was first placed on the U.S. watchlist in 2020, during Trump’s first term, but was removed by President Joe Biden in 2023, who cited progress in religious tolerance.

The reinstatement comes after renewed lobbying from American lawmakers and human rights groups who claim that Christian communities have been disproportionately targeted by armed groups.

Analysts say the issue remains highly complex.

While extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP have carried out attacks on Christian targets, widespread violence has also affected Muslim-majority communities, particularly in the north.

Complex Causes of Violence

Experts warn that Nigeria’s crisis cannot be explained by religion alone.

They point to a mix of ethnic rivalry, poverty, land disputes, and weak governance as major drivers of conflict.

Human rights organisations have urged caution in framing the situation as a “Christian genocide”, saying such language risks deepening division.

Potential Impact

Nigeria’s return to the CPC list could affect diplomatic relations with Washington and future U.S. security cooperation.

The decision also underscores President Trump’s renewed focus on global religious freedom, a theme he has frequently highlighted since returning to office in January 2025.

For many Nigerians, however, the concern remains local — ensuring safety for all citizens regardless of faith.